English cricket is in a very healthy position right now and there will be a real hope that they can make 2021 a memorable year.
They kick things off with a challenging tour to India in the next few months. That’s followed by a T20 World Cup, as well as a trip down under to take on Australia as they look to win the Ashes back, so it really should be exciting.
A quick look at the latest cricket betting odds shows they are 11/4 to win the little urn and among the favourites for the T20 World Cup. So, it’s possible that it could be a period that is remembered forever in English cricket, if they can be successful on both fronts.
Whilst there’s nothing wrong with dreaming, the reality is that it’s going to be a huge test for the players. Even though most of the squad for those fixtures already picks itself, there is still time for those on the fringes to force their way in. Plus, injuries and form can play a part over the coming months.
One man who is sure to have a significant role, though, both next year and for potentially the next decade or so, is Sam Curran.
Of course, the 22-year-old has already made a name for himself in the game and he was the most expensive English player to play in the IPL, which highlights how high his reputation is across the globe. However, it’s important to remember that he is still a young player but even that’s exciting as he has the potential to improve.
Ben Stokes has carried England somewhat over the years and there would always be a concern that, if he dropped out of the team, there’s no genuine alternative.
And, whilst we don’t want to put extra pressure on Curran, he certainly has the qualities to become a talisman for the country if Stokes is absent. Pleasingly, that appears to be a role the Surrey man is relishing as he has already revealed that he sees the World Cup winner as an inspiration.
<blockquote class=”twitter-tweet”><p lang=”en” dir=”ltr”>With Ben Stokes rested for the South Africa ODI series, the all-rounder's wait for his first 50-over appearance since he won the World Cup looks set to continue through to 2021… <a href=”https://t.co/QrcApw4mrf”>pic.twitter.com/QrcApw4mrf</a></p>— Wisden (@WisdenCricket) <a href=”https://twitter.com/WisdenCricket/status/1323626430970974208?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw”>November 3, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src=”https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js” charset=”utf-8″></script>
For the fans, the most exciting option would be getting the two all-rounders in the team together and that will be a prospect that frightens the opposition. Curran has proven with both bat and ball that he can deliver on the biggest stage and the upcoming events are a great setting to showcase his talents further.
With the ferocious pace of Joffra Archer leading the bowling attack, backed up by the reliable Stuart Broad, England are always dangerous. Then, they boast accomplished batsmen and captains in Joe Root and Eoin Morgan in both formats of the game, with further quality in all positions.
But, the likes of Stokes and Curran just bring that something special to the team, as they’re capable of pulling off that match-winning shot or taking a crucial wicket.
The world already knows about Stokes’ talents and in truth they already know what Curran can do. However, he may be able to elevate himself to the next level by helping England to victories in what is a massive 2021.